If you have been following I have been very impressed with the taste, consistency of the protein powder. After reading reviews of the product a few things were brought to my attention. First there are claims that the product is scam due to a lack of listed ingredients in the powder. Second there has also been some concern about the presence of Caffeine in the shake, personally I wouldn't mind a bit of caffeine in it especially if it keeps me from taking caffeine pills. The past few days I have been taking those concerns into account and really checking the ingredients and the skeptics are probably correct with their observation. I do not believe that all of the ingredients are listed on the bag, however with that said I am not dissuaded from using Shakeology. If there are any questions regarding if there are artificial flavors included I simply would send the person right to the taste. Again I have tried all type of protein powder, from Amp, Isopure, Muscle Milk, ProSource, GNC, EAS and others over the years. I have also tried just about all of the flavors offered from my fave Vanilla then Strawberry and finally Chocolate of which was wayyy at the bottom of my list. As a consumer making an honest observation who also does not have anything to gain, I would say that all the other powders tasted synthetic. They were grainy, clumped in regular water, the taste did not fully taste like the actual flavor, you knew when you were drinking the shake.
That is what is different with Shakeology, I do not know whether all of the ingredients are natural however, I will say that it tastes natural. Usually at this point I am sick of drinking the shakes and force myself just to swallow it fast but this is different with Shakeology. I have not been tired of the shake in fact I prefer to make it thick like ice cream and eat it with a spoon. I also finally realized how it gave me the boost I had been looking for to get me through the day. I skipped the shakes all together on day 7 and let me tell you I dragged all day, I felt so week and couldn't figure out why I felt so bad. Then I realized what was missing from the day was my normal morning shake. I always felt the energy but never crashed like I would after taking a caffeine pill or drinking diet coke (I heart). I have to give the shake an A+++ for the energy boosting qualities it states it will give you. I also found out there are new recipes and I really think there is natural cocoa in the powder because of the taste. I cant wait to do the cleanse, I will begin the cleanse on Monday simply because I like to eat sushi etc. on the weekends.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Q: Shakeology Day 3-4
Thus far I will say that this is the best tasting supplement that I have tried over the years. Most after a while tend to taste grainy almost artificial, Shakeology on the other hand continues to be smooth and the chocolaty taste remains. I have toyed around with what to add to the powder, so far I have added Bananas, Strawberries, Honey, Blue Berries, Raspberries and Wild Berries. My favorite is a combination of powder, bananas and strawberries along with ice and come Almond or Rice milk. I also prefer it to be very thick which makes it taste like a Wendy's frosty and its just that good. I also have drank it just with water and still it kept its flavor and was not as lumpy as most powders tend to get when you simply mix with water. In the oncoming days I will do a Shakeology cleanse and make cookies with the powder from a recipe that was given to me with the bag of Shakeology.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Q: Shakeology Day 2
On day 2 of my 30 day Shakeology trial, I combined 1 scoop of Shakeology with, 1/2 banana, Almond Milk (unsweetened), ice and water. What came out was this smooth chocolate and banana drink which was sooo good. If you are a chocolate lover and you have this product try putting a banana in the cup. I enjoyed the flavors but next time I will put 1/2 a scoop because it can be very overpowering especially if you are not a huge chocolate person which I am not. I will point out that when I first received the bag Janna from Team Beach Body did say that it will clean you out the first couple of days. She was correct and unfortunately I was stuck working a double shift at work. Unlike some people I know, my turtle will not come out of the shell when I am away and around an unknown toilet. It was painful feeling your tummy twist and roll but with proper meditation and concentration I got through it. Remember that it will cleanse the body as you continue to drink your shakes.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Q: Shakeology Day 1
If you are friends with us on FB then you know by now that I won a bag of Shakeology from the Rasa-Lila festival. I was very excited yet apprehensive about the product first the price, 119 is a bit steep for a 30 day supply of a supplement and second, I am not a huge fan of chocolate I'd rather vanilla. To my dismay Shakeology did not come in the vanilla flavor however it was explained that the flavor of vanilla was not natural thus the reason behind not having the flavor. At the fest I only tasted a small amount of the product and it was good but not POW amazing. As I made plans to link up with Janna from Team Beach Body I did more research on the product. C gave me a great article about the creator of the product and his quest to find the perfect combination of super foods which was featured in O magazine. At some point I became excited however, because I have taken so many different products I was a bit skeptical then decided I would put something together on our blog.
Health is big business in America because there are so many people who have yet to take that first step to changing their lives. Products that promise weight loss and provide energy tend to make a tremendous amount of money. In my eyes this product is no different however because I believe in Beach Body, although they should have more rounder people in their videos, I'm keeping an open mind and belly for this product. First day I opened up the package and I knew from the beginning this was different. The bag was heavy the smell was amazing, it smelled more like cocoa powder than actual chocolate. I then took 1 scoop of Shakeology, 1 tbl spoon of Peanut Butter, unsweetened Almond milk, water and ice and with the help of my Magic Bullet I blended the shake together. When I stopped the Magic Bullet I opened up to this creamy chocolaty peanut butter smelling thick drink and for a second I had to check the bag again to make sure it was a supplement and not cocoa mix. I took the sip and ooooohhh boy it was good, it tasted like someone took chocolate melted it then crushed it up in tiny tiny peaces until it became a powder. Immediately I could tell the difference between the products I was drinking and this one. For day one I was pleasantly surprised and very excited for the next 29 days.
I'll leave you with this just a little bit of information about Shakeology: provides the widest array of nutrients from around the world in a nutrient-dense but low-calorie formula. One that can't be replicated anywhere.
Health is big business in America because there are so many people who have yet to take that first step to changing their lives. Products that promise weight loss and provide energy tend to make a tremendous amount of money. In my eyes this product is no different however because I believe in Beach Body, although they should have more rounder people in their videos, I'm keeping an open mind and belly for this product. First day I opened up the package and I knew from the beginning this was different. The bag was heavy the smell was amazing, it smelled more like cocoa powder than actual chocolate. I then took 1 scoop of Shakeology, 1 tbl spoon of Peanut Butter, unsweetened Almond milk, water and ice and with the help of my Magic Bullet I blended the shake together. When I stopped the Magic Bullet I opened up to this creamy chocolaty peanut butter smelling thick drink and for a second I had to check the bag again to make sure it was a supplement and not cocoa mix. I took the sip and ooooohhh boy it was good, it tasted like someone took chocolate melted it then crushed it up in tiny tiny peaces until it became a powder. Immediately I could tell the difference between the products I was drinking and this one. For day one I was pleasantly surprised and very excited for the next 29 days.
I'll leave you with this just a little bit of information about Shakeology: provides the widest array of nutrients from around the world in a nutrient-dense but low-calorie formula. One that can't be replicated anywhere.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Q: I heart Rasa-LiLa
After all the buildup on Saturday April, 16th I went to my first festival focused on the practice of yoga. At first I was a bit hesitant the New yorker started to take hold and that feeling of going to a place alone made me uncomfortable. This process is all about change and stepping out of ones comfort zone and experiencing new things. With that in mind I got up walked my boys, picked up my Yoga mat, water, camera and an open mind and walked out the door. I drove and the first thing I noticed when I pulled up to the campgrounds was the Orange Groves right next to the grounds and a farm right across from that. I parked got out of my car and immediately was met with smiles, from the persons handling parking to registration everyone was happy and very inviting.
I picked up my gift bag was directed to my volunteer station and walked up to yet another smiling face welcoming me to the fest. Every doubt I had in me about whether I would enjoy myself had left, instead I focused on enjoying the moment. At that moment this city G was surrounded by nature and with people who found their own joy in what they do. From the vendors, non-profit organizations and the Yoga studios everyone was there for one thing, joy. Honestly I did not know how if I could handle such an experience where it was completely dry. In my previous life I would have run the other way when I heard the word "dry" but in this one it really didn't matter.
It was such an amazing experience a full day of meditation, Yoga, Music, Lecture and kids fun. I took my first Power Yoga class with Stephen Bickle from the Bella Prana Yoga who was amazing. I could not do some of the poses and you know that was a ok no one stared they just offered options. Then there was Flow Yoga by Yoga Village, Jivamukti by Happy Buddha Yoga studio and then I took a break. While on break I sat under a tree eating a vegan philly cheesesteak from the Lettuce Eat Healthy stand and watched the yogi's in the inversion class taught by Amy Chin from Jai-Dee Yoga. It felt great just to be in that moment waiting for C and Kai to join me. Finally they arrived and immediately the vibe turned static, immediately we decided that next year we would stay overnight and urge our friends to join us.
Finally we met two great people who represent Team Beach Body. Janna and Joel were great and immediately we all clicked and had some great laughs while also talking about the need to get healthy. Along with that there was the transition from Shawn T's Insanity workout, gaining weight, losing weight and Shakeology. Oh and for the first time I actually won a raffle, I won a 30 day supply of Shakeology of which I will write a full review of. What I took from this entire experience is this: Larger sizes are missing from great experiences like Rasa-Lila but its not because we are not welcome, its because we just haven't made our presence known...until now. I also found that you can connect with people from all walks of life and find fruitful connections and support. I know that the feeling of being alone is one that is placed on ourselves because we are not alone. I heart yoga and you know what there are a ton of people who also heart yoga. From the men practicing in prison, to the upper class music mogul, the middle class stay at home mom, and the lower class pay what you can crowed.
fAat yoGa will have a greater presence next year at the fest hopefully we can get more people out for the first time sporting there fAat shirts. If you are looking for additional support make sure you check out Janna Ballard on either FB or Team Beach Body she is a coach and support your local Yoga studios. Here are a few pictures from the fest enjoy:
I picked up my gift bag was directed to my volunteer station and walked up to yet another smiling face welcoming me to the fest. Every doubt I had in me about whether I would enjoy myself had left, instead I focused on enjoying the moment. At that moment this city G was surrounded by nature and with people who found their own joy in what they do. From the vendors, non-profit organizations and the Yoga studios everyone was there for one thing, joy. Honestly I did not know how if I could handle such an experience where it was completely dry. In my previous life I would have run the other way when I heard the word "dry" but in this one it really didn't matter.
It was such an amazing experience a full day of meditation, Yoga, Music, Lecture and kids fun. I took my first Power Yoga class with Stephen Bickle from the Bella Prana Yoga who was amazing. I could not do some of the poses and you know that was a ok no one stared they just offered options. Then there was Flow Yoga by Yoga Village, Jivamukti by Happy Buddha Yoga studio and then I took a break. While on break I sat under a tree eating a vegan philly cheesesteak from the Lettuce Eat Healthy stand and watched the yogi's in the inversion class taught by Amy Chin from Jai-Dee Yoga. It felt great just to be in that moment waiting for C and Kai to join me. Finally they arrived and immediately the vibe turned static, immediately we decided that next year we would stay overnight and urge our friends to join us.
Finally we met two great people who represent Team Beach Body. Janna and Joel were great and immediately we all clicked and had some great laughs while also talking about the need to get healthy. Along with that there was the transition from Shawn T's Insanity workout, gaining weight, losing weight and Shakeology. Oh and for the first time I actually won a raffle, I won a 30 day supply of Shakeology of which I will write a full review of. What I took from this entire experience is this: Larger sizes are missing from great experiences like Rasa-Lila but its not because we are not welcome, its because we just haven't made our presence known...until now. I also found that you can connect with people from all walks of life and find fruitful connections and support. I know that the feeling of being alone is one that is placed on ourselves because we are not alone. I heart yoga and you know what there are a ton of people who also heart yoga. From the men practicing in prison, to the upper class music mogul, the middle class stay at home mom, and the lower class pay what you can crowed.
fAat yoGa will have a greater presence next year at the fest hopefully we can get more people out for the first time sporting there fAat shirts. If you are looking for additional support make sure you check out Janna Ballard on either FB or Team Beach Body she is a coach and support your local Yoga studios. Here are a few pictures from the fest enjoy:
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
C: The Scale is my 'Scale' of Progress
Against my inner voice I stepped on the scale this morning at the gym after my morning cardio. I am a pound heavier than I was when we started this journey on Feb 5. Even though I've gone down 2 sizes, feel great, skin looks wonderful, I feel strong...something inside me is preventing the celebration. My scale of progress has been halted. At least that is what I thought until I chatted with my best boy bestie. He said, 'That is why I hate biggest loser, Cara...it is all about the scale and not about how people did during the week; the breakthroughs they had' and you know what? He is right. I can list at least 10 things I have already incorporated into my life that are here to stay and none of them have to do with what the scale says. So that's it! I'm done! No more weighing, I am going by measurements, clothing, and general health and fitness level. I couldn't even make it through a session with the trainer without crying and now I feel like I could go another round after a 30min rest.
Here's to stepping off the scale and keeping my measure of progress on point!-C
Here's to stepping off the scale and keeping my measure of progress on point!-C
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Q: Church
It took me two days to write this because I needed to really take in going to church on Sunday. If you have been following C referred to the outdoor free Yoga class that was held in downtown Tampa as Church. I was excited from the beginning to go, first to see downtown Tampa, and secondly because the practice has completely transformed my life. Leading up to the event I became a bit nervous, the morning yoga class I take every Sunday could not bring me to that tranquil state due to a switch in instructors. The person that took over for the class was good however I could not awaken the internal quiet I experience with Sonja every Sunday and Wednesday. Something about her voice allows me to really focus on my breathing and with every breath she guides me to full relaxation.
I wanted to be relaxed because I have or had my own anxiety about being out in the open contorting my body while also being in the dirt. What pushed me was the excitement in C's voice and the fact that my god daughter was going to join us in the open. We arrived and there out in the open was this beautiful space full of life, bright with colors and smiling faces. Since I moved down to Tampa I had yet to experience downtown, wow it was beautiful. From the architecture of the museum and the University of Tampa, to the Canal that separated college life to downtown life. My inner nerd began to awaken all I could think about is the historical contexts of the buildings and its location to the canal. As we walked past the museum and left the Canal to our backs, there they were, at the park meditating all in one motion. At that moment all the uncertainty of participating left, it felt like slow motion but I unrolled my mat and waited for the first move.
There we were under the trees, in the shade, feet planted, reaching up to the sky then back down and into the tree pose. For the first time I felt the power of that pose, I felt as if my feet were rooted in the ground through my mat digging its way into the earth. I had my first spiritual awakening, there was this sensation that came over me of complete bliss. Secretly I peaked at C just to see if she felt it too but she was in her own trance deep in her own meditative state. At times I am envious because she can truly shut out the world while my mind always has to get the last word lol. I fell in love with myself, the earth, the wind, my spirit, the worlds spirit and Yoga. With that understanding my plank became stronger, the transition from downward dog to cobra became more fluid. I understood how and why people become so connected to this practice and why meditation is just as important as breath and movement in this practice. I never thought I'd say that I look forward to going back to CHURCH, I do.
Every Sunday in Tampa, FL at Curtis Hixon Park from 6-7p a yoga class will be held and is open to everyone. If you are in the area or travel and want something to do other than the beach come and join us. Oh and one more thing it was great to see that there were other fAat yoGa participants :)
I wanted to be relaxed because I have or had my own anxiety about being out in the open contorting my body while also being in the dirt. What pushed me was the excitement in C's voice and the fact that my god daughter was going to join us in the open. We arrived and there out in the open was this beautiful space full of life, bright with colors and smiling faces. Since I moved down to Tampa I had yet to experience downtown, wow it was beautiful. From the architecture of the museum and the University of Tampa, to the Canal that separated college life to downtown life. My inner nerd began to awaken all I could think about is the historical contexts of the buildings and its location to the canal. As we walked past the museum and left the Canal to our backs, there they were, at the park meditating all in one motion. At that moment all the uncertainty of participating left, it felt like slow motion but I unrolled my mat and waited for the first move.
There we were under the trees, in the shade, feet planted, reaching up to the sky then back down and into the tree pose. For the first time I felt the power of that pose, I felt as if my feet were rooted in the ground through my mat digging its way into the earth. I had my first spiritual awakening, there was this sensation that came over me of complete bliss. Secretly I peaked at C just to see if she felt it too but she was in her own trance deep in her own meditative state. At times I am envious because she can truly shut out the world while my mind always has to get the last word lol. I fell in love with myself, the earth, the wind, my spirit, the worlds spirit and Yoga. With that understanding my plank became stronger, the transition from downward dog to cobra became more fluid. I understood how and why people become so connected to this practice and why meditation is just as important as breath and movement in this practice. I never thought I'd say that I look forward to going back to CHURCH, I do.
Every Sunday in Tampa, FL at Curtis Hixon Park from 6-7p a yoga class will be held and is open to everyone. If you are in the area or travel and want something to do other than the beach come and join us. Oh and one more thing it was great to see that there were other fAat yoGa participants :)
Monday, April 11, 2011
C: Setbacks
I've been feeling great for the past 2 weeks, so why today do I feel blah? This morning I got a lot accomplished on this, my 'off' day. I fit into a shirt that I bought last year and couldn't fit, last year. But then I bought a bathing suit, got it home and nope..no bueno. Everything fits but the boobs. And I felt bloated at the pool...and felt...well....blah. As I sat reading my book, watching my daughter swimming in the pool, I realized, today could be a setback. But then I thought about the word setback and realized that I am not back to anything. This is just a day when I did not get my natural high from the gym. It is a day of rest and introspection. A day to let my body rest, my muscles heal, and my heart focus. Today was a day of reflection and quiet, and piece and mediation for all I have done so far.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Q: C my trainer
Yesterday was a great day of exercise with beautiful weather and a nice relaxing dip in the pool and hot tub. Body Combat was great, I can get lower in my stances and punch with more power and my stamina is much better, results of my morning cardio sessions. What was even better is C worked with me in the gym and showed me a great full body workout routine. It felt good just to have someone pushing me one more rep, just one more squat, it felt even better to have a laugh in between the yells and encouragements. That time spent just having a partner encourage those small accomplishments just sent a small shock of electricity which has given me that push i needed to continue you this on my own. The ab work that I did has me feeling real sore today but yoga still calls my name. Thanks C for the kick in the arse.
Friday, April 8, 2011
C: Church On Sunday
As Q mentioned...Happy Buddha YOGA Lounge will have their weekly FREE yoga class this and every Sunday @ Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa, on the lawn/stairs of the Tampa Art Museum. Just to get folks excited, a passerby snapped this pic from a week ago...amazing! If you need me or Bug, or even Q on Sunday between 6-7, this is where we will be...AT CHURCH! LOL
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| Photo Taken by Justin DeMutiis |
Q: Getting There
Yesterday I received a text from a good friend and she wrote that lately she had become very upset at the way one of her family members treated the other. This was stressing her out, she continued to say that she thought about fAat yoGa and the journey and decided to run. She ended up running 6 miles, and she called me an inspiration. I have been at odds with cardio especially the treadmill and or elliptical however today when I went in this morning I felt inspired. Well I accomplished 4miles today...4 miles!!! I feel great could go another 4 but had to stop. I know she is a fAat yoGa reader, ready for her to be a follower but I wanted to thank her for the inspiration. My journey is different from C's because when I'm at the gym there are not alot of people, I dont have that bond with a trainer or trainers. Doing this on my own I realize that where someone may get stuck at is getting the encouragement when you need it at times. That is one reason why I'll never stop going to the classes because that is where it feels good when the instructor knows your name and where you sit, stand, run, sweat next to the same person every week. This is just a word to all those that have hit that point where they need just a little encouragement keep going, keep working and doing. I ran harder than I have ever run and my goal is to be 80lbs lighter by July 4th weekend which is the same weekend of my friends bachelorette party.We haven't seen each other since I left NY so im working on a huge reveal then September is the wedding and Tough Mudder in December.
Just keep going, whether its with a trainer, in a class, walking on a trail, taking up yoga, working out at home, just keep going. We all come face to face with the mountain, what makes us who we are is how we conquer it, how we move past it. Namaste
Just keep going, whether its with a trainer, in a class, walking on a trail, taking up yoga, working out at home, just keep going. We all come face to face with the mountain, what makes us who we are is how we conquer it, how we move past it. Namaste
Thursday, April 7, 2011
C: Breakthrough
I had a wonderful breakthrough yesterday while at the gym with my trainer. The day before I went to the gym 3 times (45min-cardio intervals am, 45min-cardio midday, hour long bodyflow). That night I thought I would not make it to the gym in the morning however, I woke up feeling surprisingly strong so I went. Then yesterday afternoon I met with Chris. About 1/2 way through the circuit I got chills up my arms because I actually felt really strong. I liked the 'high' from being out of breath. Yes, there were some points when I could not do another rep but then he would say 2 more and I would give him 3-4. I was very proud of myself. This morning I was back in the gym...getting my morning cardio on and it was nice to actually notice smiles from the other gym folks. Two other trainers gave me the 'yep! you are working it!' nod and someone else said...'geesh...weren't you hear last night too?' That made me feel good. I'm actually walking in with my head up. I still have lumps and bumps and while I love them, I am enjoying helping them pack their bags and getting the hell off of my body!
4/6 Workout 'All About The Abs':
10 min quick walk
Squat kettle bell (12 times each arm)
Shoulder raise to shoulder press; and really push up when coming out of shoulder press (15)
Cable cross lats (30)
Standing cable twist for obliques (30 each side)
Kettle bell swing with squat; make sure kettle bell comes up to shoulder height. You should not really feel the weight in your arm as the momentum of the swing should carry the weight (15)
Squat and canoe row with weight (12 each side)
Kettle bell standing dead lift from hips (30)
...Rinse and repeat 2 more times with a minute rest in between
Ab machine 40lb-4 sets of 35
Ab machine 60lb-3 sets of 20
Ab machine 80lb-2 sets of 12
Ab machine 100lb-1 set of 10
Then ab bench (like an ab roller)-3 sets of 30
4/6 Workout 'All About The Abs':
10 min quick walk
Squat kettle bell (12 times each arm)
Shoulder raise to shoulder press; and really push up when coming out of shoulder press (15)
Cable cross lats (30)
Standing cable twist for obliques (30 each side)
Kettle bell swing with squat; make sure kettle bell comes up to shoulder height. You should not really feel the weight in your arm as the momentum of the swing should carry the weight (15)
Squat and canoe row with weight (12 each side)
Kettle bell standing dead lift from hips (30)
...Rinse and repeat 2 more times with a minute rest in between
Ab machine 40lb-4 sets of 35
Ab machine 60lb-3 sets of 20
Ab machine 80lb-2 sets of 12
Ab machine 100lb-1 set of 10
Then ab bench (like an ab roller)-3 sets of 30
Q: Can Yoga help curb eating disorders?
Lately I have been picking up the free alternative newspapers that are available in places like the gym, supermarket, food coops and "alternative" eateries. I recently picked up a copy of CL or Creative Loafing and started doing my initial skim so as to map out where I would begin. Personally I read the important articles first next the new music section which I love because it feature indy or alternative to the mainstream artists. Last I read the trash, the filler articles the Dan Savage columns, movie reviews and even the Hollywood gossip and I save those for the end of my shift.
As I started the skim of this particular issue I stopped right away on an article which discussed how Yoga helped combat eating disorders. In the article they point out two women at different stages of there lives who fought and hid their disorders for years. The first woman was cycling through anorexia and bulimia for years and at the age of 26 after going to a rough divorce she found yoga. What she found was that she was able to "begin to deal with it (eating disorder) in increments." The other woman at the age of 70 and decades of hiding her eating disorder out of boredom she decides to take a class. This woman states that "yoga has been transformative" and now actively attempts to get the word out just for people to try it.
I read this article and understood where these women were at in the beginning of their journey and where they are now. Yoga is one piece in change it is not the cure but what it allow you to do is really concentrate on you, it slows your mind down and your body and allows you appreciate it with each pose. My schedule prevents me from doing it daily and although I have DVDs at home I enjoy going to a class. Its stepping out of the world of noise and into silence at the end it reintroduces you to that noise but the mind, body and soul is calm. We use stimulants and artificial substances to produce calm, to lose weight, just to wake up and we ignore what nature has already provided us with. What we have is ourselves, the trees, flowers, the space and everything that we have created. Yoga can, has, and will change lives but not because it's "yoga" that new fad but it brings you back to focus on you. Yoga is another way to go green with your body and to take a natural break from the craziness that is the world. When I walk out of class on Wednesdays I feel like I can really see the world, everything slows down its a natural high. I walk into work and take my shoes off at my desk and stand there feeling grounded, planted. Food, work, the Internet, Facebook, it all becomes secondary and just for that moment I am a Tree.
On April 10th in Tampa, FL at Curtis Hixon Park from 6-7p three yoga studios will hold a free 1hr class. This class is open to the public and especially if you are suffering from an eating disorder. This event is co-sponsored by the USF Hope House for Eating Disorders
As I started the skim of this particular issue I stopped right away on an article which discussed how Yoga helped combat eating disorders. In the article they point out two women at different stages of there lives who fought and hid their disorders for years. The first woman was cycling through anorexia and bulimia for years and at the age of 26 after going to a rough divorce she found yoga. What she found was that she was able to "begin to deal with it (eating disorder) in increments." The other woman at the age of 70 and decades of hiding her eating disorder out of boredom she decides to take a class. This woman states that "yoga has been transformative" and now actively attempts to get the word out just for people to try it.
I read this article and understood where these women were at in the beginning of their journey and where they are now. Yoga is one piece in change it is not the cure but what it allow you to do is really concentrate on you, it slows your mind down and your body and allows you appreciate it with each pose. My schedule prevents me from doing it daily and although I have DVDs at home I enjoy going to a class. Its stepping out of the world of noise and into silence at the end it reintroduces you to that noise but the mind, body and soul is calm. We use stimulants and artificial substances to produce calm, to lose weight, just to wake up and we ignore what nature has already provided us with. What we have is ourselves, the trees, flowers, the space and everything that we have created. Yoga can, has, and will change lives but not because it's "yoga" that new fad but it brings you back to focus on you. Yoga is another way to go green with your body and to take a natural break from the craziness that is the world. When I walk out of class on Wednesdays I feel like I can really see the world, everything slows down its a natural high. I walk into work and take my shoes off at my desk and stand there feeling grounded, planted. Food, work, the Internet, Facebook, it all becomes secondary and just for that moment I am a Tree.
On April 10th in Tampa, FL at Curtis Hixon Park from 6-7p three yoga studios will hold a free 1hr class. This class is open to the public and especially if you are suffering from an eating disorder. This event is co-sponsored by the USF Hope House for Eating Disorders
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
C: Goals
What I've learned so far on this journey is what did not work for me for so many years when I've tried to lose weight before. I focused so much on the end goal....a size, a bikini, and event. I realized a few things that did not work for me when doing that approach.
1-The goal was so far away that the day to day did not seem significant...the goal was just too untouchable. So one day slacking here turned into 3 days slacking the next week, etc. Pretty soon the 'date to be down by xyz pounds' would be there and gone and I would feel bad, once again for not getting it done, again. So what am I doing now? I have weekly goals that are attainable. I write down every opportunity for exercise whether it is a class at the gym, or a long walk with the dogs...My goal is to attain 3 per week. With approximately 4 items each day, I have not failed. So next will be adding another goal to those like pushing myself to up the incline one day, etc. Today, in this very moment, Tough Mudder is not for me but my options are open and if I feel like I'm strong enough come November than you're damn right I'll have a ticket!
2-Overhauling my life with too many 'get rid of this and thats'; too much planning. I was a planner...big time. Sometimes I think I gave more energy to creating spreadsheets or weight loss diet plans than actually putting them into action. This time I've stopped that. I've written down potential workouts (see item 1) and have not limited anything from my diet. Now...if I want something, anything, than I have it, I just eat the amount you are supposed to eat of it and I do not mind throwing the rest away. Because in general I am eating more veggies and good for your body foods (meaning the less processed the better), I find that foods that are not so good for your body attract me less and less. I have let go of the guilt that is associated with eating at all. Eating is what you need to do to have energy. So while I'll have a deviled egg, a protein shake, peach cobbler, or salad...it is all portioned. I don't feel deprived and I laugh when I think about how 'guilty' I felt stopping at Wendy's. Please! I am putting the work in. It isn't about 'deserving' to treat myself anymore...food does not have that power for me anymore. I treat myself everyday by living my best life daily....making me happy is what is getting me through this journey..believe that!
And finally
3. Support. For the first time I am actually talking about my journey to friends, family, even strangers. Just had a convo yesterday with a guy from Long Island about being athletic but letting go over the years. I bought a piece of furniture from him and do you know he called me last night to tell me that I inspired him so much that he left work and signed up to a LifeStyle Family Fitness near his house?! Wow!!! We are going to keep in touch over email and I expect he will become a follower of this blog (you hear that Russ?! I'm calling you out!!). Anyway...support is so important. I am blessed to have one of my best friends living near me. While we have different schedules and different goals, different motivations, we are doing this ...well...together. Some days I am off and she's at the gym pumping it out...other days she is off and I am there three times. It is not a competition. It is not a biggest loser. It is real life and we are supporting each other through ideas, encouragement and sometimes not saying anything at all. Just knowing that we will be around for each other when we are old is what is important. Being healthy is so important!
Okay! Now who wants a virtual high-five?!!-C
1-The goal was so far away that the day to day did not seem significant...the goal was just too untouchable. So one day slacking here turned into 3 days slacking the next week, etc. Pretty soon the 'date to be down by xyz pounds' would be there and gone and I would feel bad, once again for not getting it done, again. So what am I doing now? I have weekly goals that are attainable. I write down every opportunity for exercise whether it is a class at the gym, or a long walk with the dogs...My goal is to attain 3 per week. With approximately 4 items each day, I have not failed. So next will be adding another goal to those like pushing myself to up the incline one day, etc. Today, in this very moment, Tough Mudder is not for me but my options are open and if I feel like I'm strong enough come November than you're damn right I'll have a ticket!
2-Overhauling my life with too many 'get rid of this and thats'; too much planning. I was a planner...big time. Sometimes I think I gave more energy to creating spreadsheets or weight loss diet plans than actually putting them into action. This time I've stopped that. I've written down potential workouts (see item 1) and have not limited anything from my diet. Now...if I want something, anything, than I have it, I just eat the amount you are supposed to eat of it and I do not mind throwing the rest away. Because in general I am eating more veggies and good for your body foods (meaning the less processed the better), I find that foods that are not so good for your body attract me less and less. I have let go of the guilt that is associated with eating at all. Eating is what you need to do to have energy. So while I'll have a deviled egg, a protein shake, peach cobbler, or salad...it is all portioned. I don't feel deprived and I laugh when I think about how 'guilty' I felt stopping at Wendy's. Please! I am putting the work in. It isn't about 'deserving' to treat myself anymore...food does not have that power for me anymore. I treat myself everyday by living my best life daily....making me happy is what is getting me through this journey..believe that!
And finally
3. Support. For the first time I am actually talking about my journey to friends, family, even strangers. Just had a convo yesterday with a guy from Long Island about being athletic but letting go over the years. I bought a piece of furniture from him and do you know he called me last night to tell me that I inspired him so much that he left work and signed up to a LifeStyle Family Fitness near his house?! Wow!!! We are going to keep in touch over email and I expect he will become a follower of this blog (you hear that Russ?! I'm calling you out!!). Anyway...support is so important. I am blessed to have one of my best friends living near me. While we have different schedules and different goals, different motivations, we are doing this ...well...together. Some days I am off and she's at the gym pumping it out...other days she is off and I am there three times. It is not a competition. It is not a biggest loser. It is real life and we are supporting each other through ideas, encouragement and sometimes not saying anything at all. Just knowing that we will be around for each other when we are old is what is important. Being healthy is so important!
Okay! Now who wants a virtual high-five?!!-C
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
C: Arg! I Can't Tell Size!
So I 'stumbled' upon this cool website: http://www.mybodygallery.com/ On the upper left hand side you can put in a height and weight, even a body type and hit search. The search will bring up women who have posted their pictures, most have their faces hidden, to show you how they look at a certain weight. It is amazing and beautiful to see so many shapes and sizes. Some I would have guessed much smaller in weight, others I think I would have guessed more weight and others were well...dead on. Very cool!
Today was a 3 a day and boy does my body A.C.H.E!!!
AM- 45 minute interval
Midday-45 minute straight walk
Evening-BodyFlow
Today was a 3 a day and boy does my body A.C.H.E!!!
AM- 45 minute interval
Midday-45 minute straight walk
Evening-BodyFlow
Q: 3 Day Walk for a Cure
fAat yoGa has become involved in a number of activities from all different areas...In the upcomming months we will bring the fAat to Rasa Lila, 5k mofit walk for a cure, The Amazing St. Pete race, Tough Mudder and NYC for a nice travel yoga break. I am pleased to also inform you that I am in the works in joining the Susan G. Koman 3 day walk for a cure. Although we have promoted being in the gym, making sure to stay active I challenge you to be active and do it for a good cause. In doing so please send us pictures or events that you will participate in or even donation links. The more people we get involved the closer we get to finding the cure for everything. Email photos and statements to fAatyoGa@gmail.com get involved and stay active.
Q: Solo Dolo
I started my journey of being solo or dolo for my Harlemites and the first week was a god one but really full of learning. I had to first decide what I could do and what I couldn't do being that I was not working with a trainer or someone who as extremely knowledgeable about training. I went to the gym and below is what I was able to accomplish on a daily basis.
30 min on the elliptical (highest setting)
M,W,F: Yoga
M,W,F: Arms this is to complete burnout
T, Th, Sat: Legs
Sat: Body Combat
Sun: Body Flow, Step, Body Pump
In between those scheduled time there is always swimming, walking the dogs, hiking and doing things
The most important thing you can do is eat make sure you eat. I know...when thinking about getting healthy the last thing someone tells you to do is to make sure you eat. It is so important to eat and fuel your body with the right things. Eating should never consist of having burgers and fries 3x per day but if you wanted that burger have it what I call fillers. What are those fillers? Vegetables!!!!! when you want a burger and cant decide whether to get fries just deny and instead pile your burger high with as much vegetables as you would like. If you want chili put one cup in your bowl and a ton of veges it will fill you up and you can go about your day satisfied and feeling less of the hunger monster.
30 min on the elliptical (highest setting)
M,W,F: Yoga
M,W,F: Arms this is to complete burnout
T, Th, Sat: Legs
Sat: Body Combat
Sun: Body Flow, Step, Body Pump
In between those scheduled time there is always swimming, walking the dogs, hiking and doing things
The most important thing you can do is eat make sure you eat. I know...when thinking about getting healthy the last thing someone tells you to do is to make sure you eat. It is so important to eat and fuel your body with the right things. Eating should never consist of having burgers and fries 3x per day but if you wanted that burger have it what I call fillers. What are those fillers? Vegetables!!!!! when you want a burger and cant decide whether to get fries just deny and instead pile your burger high with as much vegetables as you would like. If you want chili put one cup in your bowl and a ton of veges it will fill you up and you can go about your day satisfied and feeling less of the hunger monster.
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